Oxford Soju Club by Jinwoo Park is a multifaceted debut novel. On the surface, it is a relatively quick and easy read, but upon delving deeper, it explores themes of identity and the complexities of the Korean diaspora. Set in Oxford, the novel follows three spies—North Korean, South Korean, and American—who find themselves tangled in a world of deception. As these characters navigate their personal and professional lives, the novel invites readers into a realm of shifting allegiances, conflicting loyalties, and cultural exploration.

I enjoyed the layers of character development. The novel delves into the deep internal struggles of its characters, each of whom must balance their national identities with their personal sense of belonging. These themes are skillfully woven throughout the book.

Personally, I found Oxford Soju Club especially engaging because, as someone of Asian descent, I could deeply relate to the complexities of identity that the characters experience. The novel’s exploration of cultural struggles and the constant tension between different aspects of identity resonated with my own life. I’ve often found myself grappling with these same feelings of belonging, which made the characters' journeys feel particularly personal. What made this even more compelling for me is that I live and work in Oxford, where the story is set. The setting added an extra layer of connection—I could vividly picture the iconic locations, making the narrative feel all the more real and relatable.

In summary, Oxford Soju Club is a thought-provoking debut novel that showcases Jinwoo Park's talent as a writer. The book’s ability to tackle serious themes within the framework of an espionage narrative made it a worthwhile read.

Set in Oxford, we meet three different characters, all spies, whose stories are all interlinked. A North Korean, a South Korean and a Korean American.

When Doha, a spy master is killed, his partner must find out who did it and why. Theres new leadership and a feeling that they’re being picked off one by one 👀

There’s one thing bringing them all together - the Soju Club, the only Korean restaurant in Oxford.

Cue a cat and mouse game between them all for their identities to not be revealed and to win the race to survive. Who will be exposed, what secrets will be uncovered and who will live to tell the tale?

There’s also a thought provoking underlying message from the author around what it is to be Korean and the challenges faced to establish an identity which runs throughout the story.

I really enjoyed this, a quick read with a few twists and turns along the way. Pretty good for a debut novel!

Thank you to Dundurn Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this.